Tri-Plex water situation

[Bradley Bissett]

Hi BP nation. Im looking for a little advice as im about to close on my first Multi-Family. The 3 unit home has only 1 hot water heater. The units each have separate gas/electric but not water/hot water. The hot water heater is located in unit 1. The seller has unit 2 and 3 pay $10 extra/month and credits unit 1 $20/month. In addition to this the seller collects the city water bill (based on ppl/household) from each unit monthly and pays the city. I think he does this because he wants to ensure one bad pay doesnt result in the whole house getting the water turned off. As a BP investor, im all about reducing work for myself, adding value, and creating systems to reduce stress. Should I take the time to set up each unit with its own hot water, and additionally install shut offs for each unit in the basement where only i have access....so if the unit doesnt pay water,,,on their own...i can get the notice from city and turn off as they would any other SFR rental i have in town...Thanks in advance for your input. I truly appreciate the help i get from the forums...priceless advice. Thanks again. -Brad.